Quick Leftover Chili Nachos

Quick Leftover Chili Nachos came to life one game day when I had a pot of leftover chili sitting in my fridge and a big bag of tortilla chips calling my name so I decided to pile everything together into one irresistible snack and from the first cheesy, spicy bite I knew I’d stumbled on something truly special. It instantly became a tradition in my house anytime we needed a fun, crowd pleasing dish.

The beauty of this recipe is that it transforms something simple and leftover into a brand new creation that feels exciting and indulgent. With melty cheese, crunchy chips, and bold chili, these nachos are the ultimate way to make the most of what you already have.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Tortilla chips – The perfect crispy base for all the toppings.
• Leftover chili – Brings heartiness, spice, and loads of flavor.
• Shredded cheese – Melts beautifully over the hot chili.
• Black beans – Add extra protein and texture.
• Jalapeños – Give a spicy kick and fresh crunch.
• Sour cream – Cools everything down with creamy richness.
• Green onions – For a fresh, mild oniony bite.

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet – To spread out the nachos for even melting.
• Parchment paper – Helps with easy cleanup.
• Spoon – For dolloping chili and arranging toppings.
• Knife – To slice the jalapeños and green onions.

Instructions

Step 1

I preheat the oven to 400°F to get it nice and hot for perfectly melty cheese.

Step 2

I line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread a generous layer of tortilla chips.

Step 3

I spoon the leftover chili evenly over the chips, making sure every chip gets a bit of that goodness.

Step 4

I sprinkle on the black beans and top everything with plenty of shredded cheese.

Step 5

I pop the tray in the oven for about 10 minutes, just until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Step 6

I take the nachos out and finish them with fresh jalapeño slices, green onions, and dollops of sour cream.

Tips

If you like things extra spicy, I sometimes drizzle a bit of hot sauce before baking or add extra sliced jalapeños on top. You can also add diced avocado or fresh tomatoes after baking for more color and flavor.

Ways to Serve

I love serving Quick Leftover Chili Nachos as a fun appetizer for game nights or as a main dish for a casual dinner. You can also set up a nacho bar and let everyone add their favorite toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Quick Leftover Chili Nachos in advance?

I recommend baking them fresh so the chips stay crispy, but you can prep the toppings ahead.

What cheese works best?

A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts really well and has great flavor.

Can I use vegetarian chili?

Absolutely! It works just as deliciously.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these Quick Leftover Chili Nachos soon! They’re easy, satisfying, and the best way to breathe new life into leftover chili. Share your version with me and let me know what fun toppings you add!

Happy Cooking!

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